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Mixed feelings marked the Middelburg visit of the Roads and Public Works MEC, Pumulo Masualle, during the Government Outreach Programme visit to the Mid Karoo.

Middelburg people voiced their concerns angrily and yet appreciated the opportunity afforded to them by the Eastern Cape Executive Council to relate their problems directly to them.

Among the concerns raised, crime and violence became the centre of debate. From the meeting it could be deduced that it was the cause of the deep-seated anger showed by the people of this area. Gangsterism, it was revealed, had taken its toll on the community with a group called 'Mafokong' dominating the streets and virtually the lives of the people in this community.

"It is no longer safe for old and young women to walk on the streets after dark as they are afraid of these criminals," remarked one member of the community who appeared disturbed by the levels to which the incidence of crime had escalated.

Disturbing though, was the fact that police intervention was not appreciated because some members of the community provided shelter and even refused apprehension of these criminals by the police. "In such a situation it becomes difficult for the police to put the culprits into custody and reduce criminals elements within the community", she said.

In his response the MEC encouraged the community to strengthen the Community Policing Forum (CPF). He explained that they were legitimate structures wherein the community could participate and make meaningful contribution towards reducing levels of crime and even curbing it completely.

Renovation of schools, discipline of educators who are not committed to the cause of educating the African Children, non-delivery of textbooks also featured very strongly in the meeting.

Parents showed extreme intolerance at the teachers who are bent on taking leaves in groups of five at the same time thereby depriving learners' education. However, it also appeared that the structures that are meant to attend and resolve these problems are either not properly constituted and functional at all or their functions and roles are not properly understood, hence in his response the MEC emphasised the need for the community to be united behind supporting the School Governing Bodies (SGBs).

Issues of social security also became the feature of the day with social grants for the elderly and children dominating. These issues constitute the major source of income in this area there it was clear that the people were raising the issues that to their hearts.

With regards to the welfare related issues the MEC explained the legislative as well as policy provisions guiding welfare grants. With specific cases the MEC called on the people to submit them as they were mere administrative mistakes that needed follow up.

In closing the meeting the MEC emphasised on the need for community to work closely with the Government, structures for effective participation and communication have been put in place people must make optimal use of such structures to assist government in bettering the lives of the people.

Contact: Andile Fekisi at 040 -609 4476

Issued by Roads and Public Works, Eastern Cape

13 June 2001